Don’t mix boats and booze this bank holiday

Boat owners should stay off the booze for a safe bank holiday weekend on the tidal Thames.

As summer draws to a close, that’s the joint message to all vessel owners from the Metropolitan Police’s Marine Unit, and the Port of London Authority (PLA).

Offenders risk criminal prosecution and may have their boat masters licence revoked by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Any member of the public suspecting a crew member might be under the influence of drink or drugs should report it via the Crimestoppers hotline (0800 555 111), online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or, in an emergency, by dialling 999.

Sgt Paul Hollis, based at Wapping Police Station, said: “Don’t drink and drive is a message that applies equally on the river, as well as on the roads. Just like being at the wheel of a car, alcohol and drugs reduce peripheral and night-time vision, delay reactions times, and impede judgement out on the water too."

PLA deputy harbour master, Darren Knight, said: “Alcohol and drugs are a recipe for accidents out on the river. However tempting it may be to socialise and relax when out on the water with friends, all mariners must always remember the responsibility they have in keeping their passengers and themselves safe.”

Over the bank holiday period, PLA teams working on the river will visiting marinas along the tidal Thames, to share tips on enjoying the river safely.